If you have a child with a chronic illness, caring for them can take a toll on your well-being.

The pediatric home care professionals at J&D Ultracare recommend the following: 

Build a Support Network

• Let friends and family know you are feeling stressed.
• Reach out to other parents who are experiencing similar situations.
• Ask others, including your child’s physicians, nurses, teachers and/or therapists for suggestions regarding support groups or networks related to your child’s diagnosis or needs.

Prioritize Your Health

• Optimize your ability to care for your child by ensuring your own health and well-being.
• Make every effort to eat well, exercise and get as much sleep as you can.
• Take time from work if you able to do so.

Meditate

• Meditation is a simple and effective tool for coping with stress. Fortunately, it’s something you can do in nearly any environment, and it doesn’t cost any money. Research simple techniques online to get started.

Get Help

• Accept offers for assistance from family members and friends.
• If you do not feel comfortable having friends or family provide direct care to your child, accept offers to cook meals, clean, run errands or entertain siblings.
• Explore options for formalized nursing care through your private health insurance and / or State Medicaid Plan.

Don’t Judge Yourself

• Parents often feel guilty because they are stressed by a child’s medical condition.
• Understand this is a natural reaction and allow yourself to experience these feelings without judgment.
• Seek professional assistance or guidance should these feelings become overwhelming or debilitating.

If you interested in exploring pediatric home-based nursing services, contact  J&D Ultracare, serving children and families throughout the New York’s Hudson Valley. www.jdultracare.com or (845) 357-4500.